An unexpected pregnancy can send anyone into a panic. We know how overwhelming it can be, but don’t let fear make any decisions for you! Make sure you get all the facts on abortion in Minnesota, so you can make an informed and empowered decision! 

In this article, we’re exploring the Minnesota abortion law and the importance of ultrasounds in your unexpected pregnancy journey!

What are the Abortion Laws in Minnesota? Is Abortion Legal in Minnesota?

At the time of writing this (January 2023), abortion is legal in Minnesota until viability—meaning, the point at which a fetus has developed enough that it can survive outside the womb with medical help. It usually happens around 24 to 26 weeks of pregnancy. However, abortions can be performed after viability if the mother’s life is in danger due to the pregnancy[1].

Ultrasounds aren’t required prior to abortion in Minnesota. However, we strongly recommend them! Keep reading to find out why!

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re thinking about terminating the pregnancy. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unexpected pregnancy! They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.

What is Pregnancy Viability?

A viable pregnancy is one that is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks, the embryo should have a heartbeat[2]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.

What is Gestational Age?

How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know how far along you are (also known as your gestational age), as Minnesota law only allows abortion up to 24 to 26 weeks. Additionally, you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[3]. 

If you intend to travel out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may prohibit abortion beyond a certain point in your pregnancy as well. 

Before spending your money only to find out you aren’t eligible for abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Pregnancy Resource Center +Medical Clinic! If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for abortion, our client advocates and licensed medical staff will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future! 

Free Ultrasounds in St. Cloud, Minnesota

No matter where you are in your unexpected pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone! The compassionate team at Pregnancy Resource Center +Medical Clinic provides confidential, no-cost care that empowers you to make informed choices.

We offer free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and a safe, nonjudgmental place to explore your pregnancy options.

Don’t wait to get the care you deserve! Call us at (320) 253-1962, text us at (320) 434-1772, or schedule your appointment today. 

Please be aware that this article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise. 

Sources

1. Prebeck, N. (Ed.). (2022, December 22). Minnesota Abortion Laws. FindLaw. Retrieved from https://www.findlaw.com/state/minnesota-law/minnesota-abortion-laws.html 
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3# 
3. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information